From the information you’ve given us, it seems there is a risk that your partner has come into contact with HIV.
What to do now
When people have been put at risk of HIV there's a treatment called PEP that may prevent HIV infection after the virus has entered the body:
PEP stands for Post Exposure Prophylaxis
It involves taking anti-HIV drugs for four weeks
It must be started as soon as possible after unsafe sex or a condom not working – ideally within 24 hours but definitely within 72 hours (three days)
There can be side effects such as diarrhoea, nausea and prolonged headaches
PEP isn’t guaranteed to work.
Your partner should go straight to your nearest sexual health clinic or hospital accident and emergency department . It's important that they do not exceed the 72 hour time limit, as PEP is not likely to be prescribed any later than this.
Staff should already know about PEP.
They will need to explain to the doctor when and how your they were at risk and any other relevant information (eg. your HIV status, the type of sex you had etc).
The doctor will also need to know your viral load. This will be taken into consideration as they decide whether or not to prescribe PEP, so take that information with you if you have it.
PEP is not a cure for HIV and is not guaranteed to prevent HIV from taking hold once the virus has entered the body. Condoms and lube for sex remain the most efficient way of preventing the spread of HIV.
Other things to think about
Before receiving PEP, your partner will probably be asked to take an HIV test. It is essential to check that they didn’t already have HIV before this risk. This is because taking PEP if you already have HIV can cause complications for treating HIV in the future.
We're here for you
Remember, whatever happens we're here for you both. If you'd like help or support all you need to do is get in touch with THT Direct.